The Old Town School of Folk Music teaches and celebrates music and cultural expressions rooted in the traditions of diverse American and global communities.
Founded in 1957, the Old Town School of Folk Music provides a wide range of music, dance, theater, and visual arts courses to people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Whatever one's interest, the Old Town School provides broad access to more than 700 accredited class offerings, private lessons, and workshops that span an array of artistic genres.
We believe in quality arts education for everyone. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, your class registration, Music Store purchases, ticket fees, membership and donations help Old Town School support this mission and provide financial aid and arts programming for thousands of Chicagoans every session. Gifts to the School are tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law.
There are many ways to give to the Old Town School. Whether you’re supporting our education programs with donations or donating your time to us your help is invaluable. These links will direct you to ways your corporation or organization can continue to support our programming and mission around Chicago.
Read all about our fascinating history since our opening in 1957
You have to get here to be here! Easy access to our campuses via public transportation in both Lincoln Square and Lincoln Park.
Not finding what you’re looking for? Contact us.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values of Old Town School and guide our efforts to create welcoming, inclusive communities for creative expression. Read our DEI statement here.
Our artist engagement service offers a wide array of entertainment for any occasion by talented, professional artists. With everything from soloists to 11-piece bands, we can help take your event to the next level and you'll be supporting the school at the same time!
Current events, press releases, and important information happening on campus and across the Old Town School universe!
Current openings for staff and faculty positions
We provide financial aid to both children and adults for private lessons and group classes based on financial need.
Housed in the basement of our Lincoln Avenue campus, the Resource Center holds a collection of over 25,000 commercial and archival recordings, videos, books, photos, documents and periodicals.
Over 250 of the most talented artists in Chicago ready to inspire you in classes and lessons!
A listing of administrative departments and contact info at Old Town School
A listing of our current Board Of Directors
Anonymous
James G. Hart Foundation
Geraldine Keefe
Negaunee Foundation
Rob and Karen Ospalik
Tomford and Grossman Family
